Obituary of Jason A. Wood

Jason Adrian Wood, 52, affectionately known as “Goose,” passed away at Columbia Presbyterian Heart Hospital in New York City on December 25, 2024, surrounded by his girlfriend and his close family. Jason was born on July 15, 1972, to Stephen R. and Valinda M. (Pearson) Wood in Adams, NY. He was a lifelong resident of Adams and Adams Center and, most recently, moved to his dream lake home in Three Mile Bay just three short months ago with his girlfriend, Julie L. White.He grew up in Adams, forming strong connections with family and friends that lasted throughout his life. Jason faced the loss of his father, Stephen R. Wood, at the young age of 12—a challenge that shaped his compassion and resilience throughout his life.  A proud graduate of South Jefferson Central School, Class of 1991, Jason maintained close bonds with his classmates, cherishing the connections he built over the years. During his teenage years, he enjoyed competitive go-kart racing with the Rod and Cathy Brimmer family, spending many summers at their cottage and creating lasting memories.Jason was also a talented pool player earning the title of Top Shooter in the B Division, and a golf player playing on a league with friends and enjoying time playing with his boys.  As Jason grew older, he became a devoted father. He was always there for his boys and supported them in all decisions. He coached his son’s sports teams during their younger years, providing guidance and encouragement on and off the field. As they grew, Jason remained their most loyal supporter, attending every game and cheering them on from the sidelines. His unwavering encouragement and pride in his sons, Stephen and Logan, were evident to all who knew him. Jason was an avid hunter and fisherman. In fact, Jason’s passion for fishing defined much of his life. Known and respected by many in the BASS Federation and local fishing clubs, Jason’s name became synonymous with talent, mentorship, and camaraderie in the angling community across NYS and beyond. He volunteered for NYS BASS Tournaments in Waddington, Clayton, and Lake Champlain, always enjoying the opportunity to meet BASS Professionals and contribute to the sport he loved. He competed in tournaments both individually and alongside his son, Logan, and served as a boat captain for the Port City Jr. Bass Masters, inspiring the next generation of anglers. Beyond fishing and sports, he enjoyed traveling, exploring, and going on cruises with Julie. Together, they explored many places, including a memorable trip to New Mexico, together they were always on a journey to experience life and the world. Jason also loved holding epic garage sales, finding treasures, attending auctions, playing pull tabs, lottery tickets, Quick Draw, and enjoyed trips to Turning Stone. He also enjoyed traditions with his mom , Valinda, around the  holidays and had a very close relationship with her.  He and his brother, Jeremy, always were joking around and had so many inside jokes that they shared.  Jason had a sharp mind for trivia and especially excelled in sports categories when playing Jeopardy with Julie—much to her dismay. He also looked forward to the annual FFA Farmer’s Challenge, having been part of the winning team for the last three years. Jason dedicated over a decade to OD Greene’s in Adams, which was more than just a place of employment—the people there are his extended family. Over the years, he also worked in various roles at White’s Lumber, Pepsi, Hang Up Put Down Shop, and Carson’s Pizzeria, where he always delivered pizza with a personal touch. A jokester at heart, Jason had a quiet and steadfast way of supporting others, knowing just when to lighten the mood and when to be serious. He shared a unique and special bond with young children, who were naturally drawn to him and felt the warmth of his nurturing spirit. His terms of endearment for friends and family were unique and special, leaving those around him feeling loved and appreciated. He also gave generously of his time and resources, attending benefits and donating to causes close to his heart, particularly the Children’s Miracle Network. Jason is survived by his cherished sons, Stephen A. Wood, 19, of Watertown, and Logan C. Wood, 17, of Adams (with their mother, Rachel Card, Jason’s former wife); his beloved girlfriend, Julie L. White of Three Mile Bay; his loving mother, Valinda M. Wood-Fell of Adams; his stepfather, Donald Fell of Adams; his devoted brother, Jeremy A. Wood of Adams; his niece, Kylie R. Wood of Watertown; his nephew, Jory A. Wood of Rutland; and his niece, Onnika R. Wood of Watertown. He also leaves behind a great-niece, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who held him dear. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jason’s memory can be made to the Northern New York Children’s Miracle Network with Samaritan Health, an organization close to his heart, or to Community Bank NA, in his memory to benefit his two sons who were his pride and joy. Donations may be dropped off or mailed to Community Bank NA, 1125 Arsenal Street, Watertown, NY 13601 under the account “For the Benefit of Stephen A and Logan C Wood.” His life was a testament to love, honesty, loyalty, dedication, and a deep connection to the people and passions that mattered most. His quiet support, contagious humor and laugh, and unique ability to make others feel valued will be profoundly missed. Rest easy, Goose. Your legacy will live on through your sons, and in the ripples of the water, the laughter and memories of loved ones, and the many lives you’ve touched. We love you forever, Jason—you should be here, we promise you will never be forgotten. Calling hours will be Saturday January 4 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Piddock Funeral Home Inc, Adams, NY. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Adams American Legion, beginning at 1:00 pm. Burial and a private graveside service will be in the spring in the Rural Cemetery, Adams, NY. Condolences and memories of Jason may be posted on www.piddockfuneralhome.com